Young Farmers welcomed supply chain expert Professor Jan Godsell to the AGRI Forum in Blackpool last year which promoted the development of a new pilot supply chain training event.

Held at WMG, University of Warwick and devised by NFYFC and Professor Godsell of WMG, the event attracted a diverse group of participants keen to explore how greater knowledge of supply chains could help their career and business prospects.

With a background in industry and agriculture as well as academia, Professor Godsell used her applied research within the dairy sector to demonstrate the relevance of how understanding supply chains could influence future business culture.

“The industry is on the cusp of change. It is increasingly recognised that an end-to-end supply chain approach is required to ensure that food can be supplied at lowest possible cost, with minimum waste, ensuring a fair return to all. It’s essential that YFC members have an understanding of supply chains and the types of business models they can adopt to remain competitive.

“Equally as important for young people is an understanding of your own personality trait and career aspiration.The two aren’t always compatible, so a key part of this pilot was to discuss personal ambitions and routes to realise these.

“We appreciate that not everyone wants to be a business entrepreneur, but those entrepreneurs will be creating some of the future opportunities within the industry.”

Toby Whatley from Worcestershire said: “I wanted to find out how I could use the knowledge of supply chains, apply that to my business ideas and drive the family business forward.

“I think these events are really important and very helpful. It’s good to take advantage of opportunities that your YFC membership provides.”